A cafe firm is set to open its first Kent branch in Canterbury city centre.

The Real Eating Company is due to officially open its doors tomorrow (Friday), on the Whitefriars site formerly occupied by food chain EAT.

EAT closed its city branch in December, following the company's acquisition by Pret a Manger.

The Real Eating Company already has coffee shops in five towns in the south east - serving “no nonsense, modestly priced, seasonal British food, using local whenever they can”.

Managing director Helena Hudson said: “We’re a strong, independent cafe business with an emphasis on using local produce and we’re big supporters of the high street.

"We have an emphasis on using local produce and we’re big supporters of the high street. We believe Canterbury will be a good home for us.

“We’re on the lookout for great local food and drink producers in and around Canterbury. Get in touch if you think we should know about you."

The company uses 100% plant-based packaging, and offers takeaway coffee for just £2 before 10am Monday to Friday.

The new store will employ eight people, with some of those positions filled by former EAT staff.

It has opened for a "test run" today but is expected to close early, and will launch officially tomorrow.

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